Virtual Reality Simulation: Integrating Infrasctructure Plans, Traffic Models, and Driving Behaviors.

This paper presents a virtual reality (VR) system that enables large-scale transportation plans to be simulated and viewed from a drivers perspective. Components include a visualization software program and optional motion and audio hardware systems that reproduce vehicle behaviors and link the driver and simulator. The simulation creation process is outlined from digital terrain model and road alignment input to photo-texture detailing and animation scripting. Recent applications and presentation methods are described. Case studies include the use of VR simulation for road design, urban planning, defensive driving training and driving behavior research.